How to Safely Watch the Solar Eclipse

Millions of Americans plan to obvserve the August 21, 2017 solar eclipse that will sweep over North America. A total solar eclipse is when the moon moves between the sun and Earth. The lunar shadow will darken the sky, temperatures will drop and bright stars wil appear at a time that is normally broad daylight.
 
What makes this so special? According to NASA, the total solar eclipse on Aug. 21 is particularly rare because it's the first time the path exclusively crosses the continental U.S. from coast to coast since June 8, 1918. It's also the first continent-wide eclipse to be visible only from the United States since 1776. This rare astronomical event usually lasts for just a couple of minutes, but it's one to not be missed!
 
An estimated 325 million people will be able to view the eclipse. This once-in-a-lifetime event will be an amazing sight that you won't want to miss! Since you should never look directly at the sun, the American Academy of Ophthalmology put together an infographic below that illustrates how to safely watch. To purchase eclipse safety glasses, visit the American Astrononical Society's list for reputable vendors of solar filters. American Paper Optics website states their glasses may be available for purchase at your local Lowe's or Walmart. The safest option is to view the eclipse on television or online.
 
 
 
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